Steven Gerrard: Defeat against France would not mean Euro 2012 KO

Steven Gerrard has attempted to play down the importance of England’s Euro 2012 opener with France, by insisting defeat would not spell disaster for
Roy Hodgson’s men.

Grounded: England skipper Steven Gerrard (Picture: Action Images)

The Liverpool midfielder, who will lead the Three Lions out against Les Bleus in Donetsk, implies that even a point against a team unbeaten in its last 21 games would be regarded as a significant achievement at this early stage in the competition.

‘It’s the first game,’ said Gerrard.

‘It’s not the end of the world whichever way it goes.

Warrior: John Terry (Picture: EPA)

‘It is important we don’t get carried away thinking we are going to win the tournament if we win and don’t commit suicide if we lose because there will still be two games to recover.’

Meanwhile, Three Lions boss Hodgson has backed former England captain John Terry to be his warrior throughout the Euro campaign.

‘We all know John’s qualities, we all know what a good centre-half he is and what a warrior he is,’ said Hodgson.

‘We also know he is capable of taking other players with him, not least of all his team-mate Ashley Cole, with whom he is used to playing.

‘I’m just hoping John will show all the qualities I have seen from him over many years with England.

‘I’m convinced he is determined to do that. He feels this is a great opportunity to show the very best of what he can do.’